Quatrain 69 from Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam
بر چشم تو عالم ارچه میآرایندمگرای بدان که عاقلان نگرایند
بسیار چو تو روند و بسیار آیندبربای نصیب خویش کت بربایند
Description:
A Note About This Quatrain
This particular rubai of Omar Khayyam is rich in philosophical and existential undertones, making a direct, literal translation quite challenging. The imagery of the world as a stage, the concept of wisdom, and the impermanence of life contribute to the poem's depth and complexity.
English Translation
A more literal translation
Though the world adorns itself for your eyes,
Do not be deceived, for the wise do not gaze upon it.
Many like you have gone, and many will come,
Seize your fortune, for others will seize it.
A more poetic and interpretive translation
The world may shine, a glittering, false display,
But wise ones see beyond its showy array.
Countless souls have passed, and more will come,
So grasp your chance, before it's overcome.
A contemporary and informal translation
The world's a stage, it puts on a show,
Don't be fooled, wise folks already know.
People come and go, it's true,
So grab what's yours, before it's through.
"بر چشم تو عالم ارچه میآرایند": This line suggests that the world puts on a false appearance to deceive people.
"مگرای بدان که عاقلان نگرایند": This line implies that wise people are not fooled by the world's superficial beauty.
"بسیار چو تو روند و بسیار آیند": This line emphasizes the cyclical nature of life and the impermanence of human existence.
"بربای نصیب خویش کت بربایند": This line encourages the reader to seize the opportunities that come their way.
Themes and Interpretations
The illusion of the world: The poem suggests that the world is full of illusions and that true wisdom lies in seeing beyond them.
The impermanence of life: The rubai highlights the fleeting nature of life and the importance of seizing the moment.
The importance of seizing opportunities: The poem encourages the reader to be proactive and take advantage of opportunities.
This rubai is a profound meditation on the human condition. The imagery of the world as a stage and the concept of wisdom create a powerful visual representation of the impermanence of life and the importance of living a meaningful existence.